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🐝 Wildflower meadow

Turning a neglected, frequently mowed, or bare patch of public lawn into a long-flowering wildflower meadow sown with a native seed mix, providing food for bees and other pollinators.

When should you do this?

Early spring or early autumn is best for sowing

What will you need?

  • Native wildflower and grass seed mix
  • Rake, soil loosener
  • Seed spreader or simple hand sowing
  • A roller or board to press the seed in
  • An info sign ("Do not mow — bee meadow")

How to get started?

  1. Choose a sunny patch of lawn that's been regularly mowed or is nutrient-poor.
  2. Coordinate with the local council or site manager about changing the mowing schedule.
  3. Rake the top layer of turf so the seed can reach the soil.
  4. Scatter the native wildflower seed mix evenly at the density given on the packaging.
  5. Press or roll the seed in lightly for good soil contact.
  6. Water until it germinates if there's a long dry spell.
  7. Put up an info sign so people know the area isn't mowed on purpose.
  8. In autumn, after flowering and seed-set, mow it once and remove the cuttings.

Useful tips

  • Only use a native, region-appropriate seed mix — avoid exotic ornamental mixes.
  • Weeds may pop up in the first year too — be patient, perennial wildflowers strengthen from year two.
  • Leave part of the area unmowed through winter too, sheltering overwintering insects.

Ready? Start a wildflower meadow project, or join one already running near you.